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One of the most frequently asked questions I heard when I was practicing massage was “how often do YOU get a massage?” As massage therapists, we learn to get a good read on our bodies and learn what works well to prevent or manage our own pain. Some of the LMTs on our team shared what works best for them, and their favorite referrals.

Camdine: I use a Lacrosse ball on my hips, back, and neck to massage painful spots. Camdine also uses locally produced Rapid Fire to reduce pain.

Jamee: I use acupressure as a cure for everything but death, and I haven’t died yet. I see my personal massage therapist (co-worker Tiffany) regularly. I also purchased a Yoga trapeze that is a miracle for low back pain.

Most of our employees swear by Rapid Fire for muscle aches and tension headaches.

Conny: I’m not in pain often, but if it happens, I either overworked something or an emotional issue came up. For physical pain, I use rapid fire and a soak in a hot bath with epsom salts, receive massage twice a month. A good book, a glass of wine, and a friend for heartache.

Conny is especially partial to Kneipp bath salts because like her, they are from Germany.

Cassie: The older I get the more my joints act up, especially after running, biking, and swimming. In addition to regular massage, I see Dr. Pulley for chiropractic care when I overdo it or something feels “off.” I have done regular pilates at Gigi’s Pilates for about 6 years. Sometimes stretching isn’t the answer (or isn’t the only answer). The strengthening techniques in Pilates really help my low back and knees from screaming after longer runs.

If I miss to many pilates sessions, my body rebels and I get low back spasms that make it hard to run. I have learned the importance of strength training to keep everything working like it should!

Want to try massage therapy or one of our favorite pain relieving products for your own aches and pains? Stop into East Village Spa at 601 East Locust or book online!

June 21st is the 2016 International Day of Yoga. Many of our team members and clients benefit from their regular yoga practice. We wanted to share some of our favorite local yoga instructors and some ideas for experienced and new yogis alike!

Our esthetician, nail technician Hannah recommends Ben Spellman from Good Vibes Yoga, with classes throughout Des Moines and at Shakti Yoga. She also recommends Brette’s classes at Shakti Yoga. For a different twist on Yoga, she also suggests trying the acro yoga classes at Power Life led by Brett Aronson and Tiffany Thomas.

If you’re completely new to yoga and find it a bit intimidating, a good place to start is your local YMCA. The South Suburban YMCA is welcoming with classes for diverse ages and fitness levels including gentle yoga, great for those new to yoga, aging adults, or people with injuries. The YMCA’s Restorative Yoga classes can are beneficial for athletes and help boost energy levels. Many people are already YMCA members and classes are FREE with your membership so why not?

Not sure where to start? Of course, it is always best to work with an experienced instructor to make sure you’re doing to poses properly to avoid injury, but if you can’t make it to a class or want to see more of what Yoga is about, check out the library of free videos at www.doyogawithme.com.

You can also look into one of the FREE International Day of Yoga events like the Iowa Circus Academy’s free class at the Des Moines Social Club.

We know there are lots of excellent yoga instructors, studios, and pop-up classes throughout the metro. We’d love to hear from you, please share your favorites!

We’re excited to share two fun social fitness activities in the East Village! First, Hoq Restaurant offers a monthly yoga brunch. Bring your mat, enjoy an all-levels yoga class, and enjoy a continental brunch with healthy farm-fresh items including vegetarian friendly fare. Check out their next Yoga Brunch on Sunday 7/20! Details here.

Another great way to get fit while you socialize is to attend the Wednesday evening social runs hosted by Lululemon and Fleet Feet. They always offer a 3 and 5 mile route and Andy from Fleet Feet swears that even jog-walkers are welcome and encouraged to attend! He likes to hang out at the back of the pack chatting. Runners/joggers/jog-walkers can meet on Wednesdays outside Fleet Feet and Lululemon on East 6th Street just across from the spa building. Who knows…someday soon you’ll see Cassie and Stacy joining the fun!

There are so many ways to stay active and have fun with friends…what are your favorites?